always say yes

‘Possessions should not replace the rich experiences and relationships we have with others. These things we own should act as mere additions to an already fulfilled existence.’ -Anonymous

frozen cattails along our walk in the Draper Preserve.

2017 is just around the corner. As we embark on a new year, for many of us, that means new goals, routines, and resolutions. Though I am not a big believer in the get-down-on-yourself New Year’s resolutions, I too, love to set goals and think of new ways to improve my overall health, our budget and our interpersonal relationships.

This year, we’ve decided to do something a bit different. We still have climbing and financial goals, which you’ll read more about over the next several weeks; however, our biggest goal will be to live more simply. We’ve discovered with home ownership, comes the need and want for other things: decorations, towels, kitchen appliances, books, shelving, rugs, plants and much more. It’s amazing how quickly every nook and cranny can fill up with stuff, possessions, meaningless things.

As we continue to get cozy in our little place, we plan to reevaluate what we currently have. This includes downsizing, donating and selling items that have no meaning or that we no longer use. Do we really need all of those mixing bowls? What about all of those plastic Tupperware containers? And all of those books and magazines? Why are we keeping socks with holes or no mate?

Throughout this process, we will sort through everything–from our closets to our cookbooks. We hope to hone in and dwindle down. I want every piece of clothing, kitchen appliance and book to have a use, a place, and a meaning. These items should only add spice to a life that’s already satisfying and satiating. Why continue to keep things we never use? Or continue to store items away in boxes, convincing ourselves that someday we might use them?

keeping beers cool while climbing at Cedar Creek.

Starting any new goal or project can be overwhelming. A project that impacts our personal space and belongings can be even more daunting. We both realize that this goal may take months, even years, and we plan to keep an open, mindful perspective while learning about the process.

In our recent endeavors to minimalism, I’ve discovered why living simply has become something we need to learn to do. There are box stores that offer lower prices for buying in bulk; there are bigger homes being built that require more things to fill them. The media also tells us that we need to keep up with the changing trends, both in our home and in our closets. These outlets and campaigns are creative and difficult to ignore.

enjoying a starry night and warm fire in Rifle, Colorado.

Living simply means making the most of what we have. We’ve both agreed we want to focus more on the rich experiences we have with each other, our friends and our family, creating memories and sharing stories, rather than buying–filling our home with stuff, possessions, meaningless things.

Instead, let’s build habits, live simply and create opportunities together. We certainly look forward to this challenge and are excited to share our journey to simplicity with each of you.